The Long-tailed Cormorant or Reed Cormorant, (Phalacrocorax africanus) is a member of the cormorant family. It breeds in much of Africa south of the Sahara, and Madagascar. It is resident but undertakes some seasonal movements.
This is a common and widespread bird species.
Cormorant Information … Listing of Species … Cormorant / Shag Species Photos
Breeding / Nesting:
It breeds on freshwater wetlands or quiet coasts. Two to four eggs are laid in a nest in a tree or on the ground.
Description:
This is a small cormorant at 50-55 cm length and an 85 cm wingspan. It is mainly black, glossed green, in the breeding season. The wing-coverts are silvery. It has a longish tail, a short head crest and a red or yellow face patch. The bill is yellow.
Males and females look alike, but non-breeding adults and juveniles are browner, with a white belly. Some southern races retain the crest all year round.
Feeding
The Long-tailed Cormorant can dive to considerable depths, but usually feeds in shallow water. It frequently brings prey to the surface. A wide variety of fish are taken.
